Anaerobic Digestion: An Under-Harnessed Technology to Drive the Nigerian Economy
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33003/fjs-2026-1021-6120Keywords:
Anaerobic Digestion, Economy, Renewable Energy, Nigeria, Waste ManagementAbstract
Anaerobic digestion (AD) is a multi-biochemical process that breaks down organic wastes in the absence of oxygen. It is a naturally driven technology that converts waste to energy and wealth, and can be practised by everyone. Its importance cannot be overemphasised. AD is used to produce energy, organic fertiliser, manage waste, promote good public health and create jobs. Nigeria remains Africa’s most populous nation. The continuous production in agricultural and industrial sectors has led to high waste generation. The indiscriminate disposal of waste at dumpsites causes serious environmental pollution. Nigeria, richly blessed with biomass, can adopt the under-utilised, unique sustainable system of AD to overcome some of the crucial environmental and economic issues it encounters. Nigeria, richly blessed with mineral resources such as crude oil, hardly supplies the quantity needed by its people. The high dependence on crude oil has led to environmental pollution and dwindling economic conditions, which have health hazards and untold hardship. The energy sector of the country is not left out. It has been a problem that different governments have been unable to solve. AD, as a viable and cost-effective technology for waste management, presents a practical guide with a multifaceted approach to combating some of these pressing issues in Nigeria. This review, addresses these challenges, which threaten the well-being of Nigerians.
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